A remarkable new educational facility, a prototype forest kindergarten, has been brought to life in Pinzberg, Germany. This innovative project, spearheaded by the skilled team at BauLab Prof. Rainer Hirth – Coburg University of Applied Science and Arts, sets a new standard for early childhood education, emphasizing environmental consciousness and modular design. Completed in the year 2025, this 60-square-meter structure is meticulously crafted to provide a nurturing and inspiring learning space for a group of 20 young children.
Pioneering Sustainable Education: The Pinzberg Forest Kindergarten Project
In the picturesque locale of Pinzberg, Germany, a groundbreaking educational initiative has materialized in the form of a forest kindergarten. This project, brought to fruition by the collaborative efforts of BauLab Prof. Rainer Hirth and the Coburg University of Applied Science and Arts, was officially completed in 2025. The core vision behind this 60-square-meter facility is its commitment to climate neutrality and energy self-sufficiency, representing a significant stride in sustainable architecture for educational environments. Designed as a mobile modular system, it offers a flexible and adaptable space ideal for outdoor-focused learning. The kindergarten is specifically configured to comfortably host up to 20 children, fostering an intimate connection with nature while providing all the necessary amenities for a modern educational setting. The design team, led by Robin Hanna and supported by Jonas Stückl and Anders Macht, with civil engineering expertise from Jonas Schmidt and Knörnschild Ingenieure, has created a harmonious blend of functionality and ecological responsibility. This prototype aims to serve as a model for future forest kindergartens, promoting an immersive learning experience rooted in sustainability.
This exemplary kindergarten serves as a beacon of forward-thinking architectural design, demonstrating how educational spaces can seamlessly integrate with the natural world while upholding rigorous environmental standards. It challenges traditional notions of school buildings, advocating for structures that are not only functional but also deeply respectful of their ecological footprint. The project inspires a vision where future generations can learn and grow in environments that actively teach them about sustainability and their place within the natural ecosystem.